Lucy Scott
Longing to organise your every day? From podcasts to transport you, to the best (ever) backpacks – these bargain buys will do the hard work for you
Autumn is just around the corner and with it comes a renewed sense of purpose that’ll keep you going until Christmas and beyond. Whether you’ve been slogging away over the summer holidays – or you’ve had too much time off with the kids – you’ve earned yourself a commuting upgrade for work trips, school runs and every journey in-between.
Packing practical pockets (for your brolly, Kindle and packable mac), in-built tech sleeves, key clips and more – the best bags for commuting are designed with purpose in mind - a perfect blend of form, function and sustainability, whether you get there by bike, bus, train or plane.
So, if you’re looking for the best multi-purpose backpack for school, university or work; a tote to take you everywhere – or the best new podcast of 2022 (to transport your mind) – these buys were made to work:
LISTEN UP!
Nothing takes you away from a crowded commuter train faster than a compelling podcast. We’re obsessed with these releases: 1 - PJ Vogt is behind Welcome to Crypto Island – a journey into the world of cryptocurrency and the crazy real-life stories of people who own bitcoin, blockchain and more. 2 - “The dumbest genre in entertainment, or the one that tells us the most about ourselves?” Pandora Sykes and Sirin Kale speak with 60+ experts in Unreal: A Critical History of Reality TV – a nostalgia-laced, addictive reality romp. 3 - In The Diary Of A CEO Steven Bartlett sits down with some of the world's most influential thinkers to unlock the secrets of their success, delivering untold truths, unlearned lessons and important insights with a raw honesty that more traditional interviews won't give you.
LIGHT READS
2. Kindle eReader, 6" Load up with the classics or autumn's hottest releases without having to lug around a hardback from home to the office with a light as a feather six inch Kindle. Subscribe to KindleUnlimited for £7.99 per month to access a huge library of books and magazines to while away your journey or opt for an Audible subscription for the same amount. Pair with your headphones to be joined on your travels by the likes of Stphen Fry or Idris and Sabrina Elba whose Amazon Original podcasts are unparalleled or icons such as Michelle Obama or Matthew Mcconaughey who read their own autobiographies. Editor's note: If you miss your stop, we cannot be held responsible.
CARRY ON!
Once you’ve got your listening matter sorted, you just need something to sling all your gear in. These are the bags that we have our eye on…
ANYDAY Convertible Tote Backpack, £39
We think you’ll agree that this sporty and sleek backpack will add a touch of athleisure to your journey. It’s lightweight, has practical front pockets and the main section is large enough for your laptop. Better still, the comfy padded backpack straps can be detached and tucked into the back pocket to convert it into a smart tote. Voila.
KNOMO Hanover 14” Laptop Briefcase, Black, £179.00
The ultimate ‘back in business’ bag, KNOMO’s multi-pocket briefcase is an organisational type's dream with slip pockets, pen loops, card slots, an RFID blocking pocket, key rings – plus easy-access to your laptop and charging cables. Think of it as your ‘on-the-go’ office, for every airport lounge and/or bus station in-between.
Herschel Supply Co Settlement Backpack, £42
Available in a choice of six colours, this vintage-style backpack comes with breathable mesh padded shoulder straps, a large compartment with a lined 15” laptop sleeve to keep your hardware protected, and a front pocket for your keys and Oyster card (we’re kidding – no-one still uses Oysters, right?)
Adidas Essentials Sack, £12
Not strictly a backpack but it's hard to beat the simplicity (and affordability) of this lightweight Adidas gym sack. Chuck in your workout clothes and water bottle (or stash a wrinkle-free outfit in there for post-work drinks or dinner) and you’re good to go.
Rains Rush Tote Bag, £45
A scaled-down version of Rains' OG tote, this pared-back bag has one main compartment big enough for your laptop plus an inner pocket for your valuables. There’s also a waterproof zip and it’s super lightweight so perfect for the journey.
CHARLES & KEITH Lin Faux Leather Backpack, £44.50
Made from faux leather for its long-lasting qualities, this quilted backpack has a sturdy zip to keep your bits and bobs secure as well as a stretchy side pocket for your water bottle. It’s also currently on sale with a huge 50% off. Run, don’t walk.
Ronhill Commuter Backpack, £90
This is at the pricier end of the scale but if you’re committed enough to run to or from work, you’ll need a backpack that fits all the essentials. This beauty has comfy fast-drying mesh padding on the straps, an adjustable waist-belt and the main compartment is big enough for an iPad, a notebook and a change of clothes.
